Institutional Risks and the Real Estate Investment Market in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Institutional risks, including bureaucratic delays, regulatory inconsistencies, and legal uncertainties, pose significant challenges to real estate investment in emerging urban markets. This study examines the impact of institutional risks on the real estate investment market in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Nigeria, and evaluates stakeholders’ perspectives on mitigation strategies. A descriptive survey design was employed, with primary data collected from 120 respondents comprising estate surveyors, valuers, and real estate developers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including mean scores and standard deviations, to assess the extent and consistency of agreement. Findings reveal that institutional risks increase transaction costs, elevate construction and project expenses, reduce investment attractiveness, and undermine investor confidence. Respondents strongly endorsed mitigation strategies such as policy stability, strengthened regulatory enforcement, inter-agency coordination, and digitization of land administration. The study concludes that institutional weaknesses are major barriers to real estate investment in Port Harcourt and that targeted reforms are essential to improve transparency, efficiency, and investor confidence. These results offer practical guidance for policymakers, regulatory agencies, and real estate practitioners seeking to foster a more resilient and investor-friendly real estate market.